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Contusion - General Definition

July 19, 2006 Send this Article to a FriendPrint This Article

Author: HyperStrike Certified Athletic Trainers

Definition

• Also known as a bruise. 2
• Result of a compressive force (e.g. direct blow to the skin, muscle, and/or bone), creating internal soft tissues hemorrhage (i.e. bleeding) and/or inflammation of the bone (AKA: periostitis). 1,2
• Minimal to moderate or severe pain depending on severity.
• Possible swelling.
• Possible sensation of muscle stiffness.
• Discoloration due to soft tissue hemorrhage.
• Possible hematoma (i.e. a mass or pooling of blood).
• Varying degrees of contusions from superficial to deep.

References

1. Prentice WE. Arnheim’s Principles of Athletic Training: A competency-based approach. 11th ed. Boston, MA: McGraw Hill; 2003: 232.
2. Thomas CL, ed. Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. 17th ed. Philadelphia, PA: F.A Davis Co; 1993: 445.
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